Why does my dog only eat when i`m around?

contenuto

• Dogs are social animals
• How to make my dog eat when i`m not there?

Dogs are social animals

It is very important to note that dogs are social animals. In nature they would hunt and eat in a group, a natural behavior that is also present in other canids such as hyenas or wolves.

From the puppy stage, many owners have sought to create such a close bond with their pet that eating times have became difficult. Could this be your case? Have you accustomed your dog to eating with you, either in the dining room or in the kitchen? For them to eat without you is not an option. They will choose any time to eat only while you are near. And even if you do not eat at the same time, they will enjoy your presence while doing so.

Many things can happen while you leave your dog at home: ringing alarms, a postman visit, noisy construction and much more. While some dogs are comfortable with the idea of ​​spending a few hours alone, others are more sensitive. They can have difficulty relaxing in solitude and spend most of the time alarmed from every noise, no matter how small.

They are not only affected by your absence but do not feel safe in that environment. Therefore, they cannot properly protect their home. Remember that dogs are territorial animals, so this discomfort will be reflected in their lack of appetite. Your return home will make them feel more relaxed because they know that you will protect them.

One of the most common problems in dogs is separation anxiety. Basically, this means your dog does not like being away from their best human friend, so they will not eat without your presence. In this case it is not the environment, it is the absence of the person. This behavior is a physiological and psychological way of expressing their frustration.

Not all dogs suffering from separation anxiety stop eating, however, it is quite common. Some dogs that go through this stage of separation can skip meals but continue eating at other times. While others do not even approach the feed because they just do not feel like it.

However, this is not the only behavior a dog assumes when they experience separation anxiety. Analyze the whole picture: Does your dog have other destructive behaviors when you leave home? Do they defecate, break, bite and howl on a prolonged basis? If the answer is yes, your pet might well fall into this category.

Then, it is best to consult with an ethologist, canine educator or trainer although you can also start a home rehabilitation. Nevertheless, do not forget that, in the long term, it can become a serious problem. Always go to a professional for guidance.

Problem-solving strategies will vary many depending on the reasons that cause it. Keep in mind that, depending on the severity of the case, it may take from days to years for your dog to regain the desire to eat in your absence. The process will be progressive. Modifying these types of behaviors is not easy, but not impossible. AnimalWised invite you to follow these simple steps - remember that change starts at home:

• Increase levels of confidence in your dog, motivate them every time you leave and do not make a big deal. When you are at home and any unexpected visits or strange noises happens, act normally, without giving importance to them. Your dog will learn from you.
• Try to educate them to eat in your absence. First place a small protective baby gate where their feed is. Then get behind them and invite them to eat, your dog will eat with you nearby. Practice moving away until you get out of sight for a few seconds and come back. Gradually prolong the distance and time of absence.
• Play with your dog by throwing rewards from afar and then with you out of sight. Come back and repeat. This will encourage the idea that good things can also happen to them when you are not there.
• Exercise for dogs is essential in general, but for dogs suffering from separation anxiety, it is the least you can do. Exercising your dog and giving them all of your attention before leaving the house is a good way to drain their energy in a positive way. Also if they are tired, you will be less aware of external noises and rest.
• Make your home environment a safe place for your beloved pet. You must make them feel at ease in your absence. Cover any possible discouraging noises with pleasant music or with the TV on. Experts claim that TV channels for children work very well on pets. Close doors and windows to isolate the noise of the outside world, but beware of closing heavy air entrances, especially in summer times. Window covers as visual barriers can also work on very nervous dogs that need more peace of mind. To finish, you can think of buying a "nest" bed so they can hide and take refuge. As with dogs that are afraid of fireworks ,
• You can also leave a long recording of your voice, so that your pet can somehow feel your presence.